Presently, CNC machining is a popular manufacturing process with a wide range of industrial applications. However, what do you know about CNC history? Have you ever thought about the history of CNC machines? What do you think people would say to machines making products/tools with little guidance some centuries ago?
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CNC machining of the present features improved computerized features due to its constant development. However, it goes well beyond that. In this article, we will answer all the above questions by diving into Computer Numerical Control history. This will be in terms of its origination and evolution over the years.
CNC machining is a manufacturing process in which a computer directs machines using programming codes to make a product. CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a subtractive manufacturing process. This means that the computer program directs these tools (for example, drills, mills, and lathes) to constantly chip away at a workpiece. This continues until the desired product is formed.
CNC machining has extensive industrial applications. For example, industries such as aerospace, health, and consumer electronics rely on their advantages. Below are the advantages of CNC machining.
1. CNC Machining Is A High Precision Process
Many industries need tools made from high precision manufacturing processes. A top industry, much known for this requirement, is the Aviation industry. Because they deal with human lives, it is unwise that their machines come from low-quality and low-precision manufacturing process. Therefore, they bank on the high precision capability of CNC Machining. When you choose us at Rapid Direct, you also get to enjoy a tolerance standard of '0.' which is mind-blowing by the way.
2. CNC Machining Produces Parts with Accuracy
Another CNC machining advantage is its accuracy. Its programming codes and operator control allows it to produce parts as accurately depicted in the CAD file. Therefore, you don't need to worry if there are many parts to fit into a bigger component. They will seamlessly fit into each other.
3. Material Choice
When compared with other manufacturing processes such as 3D printing, CNC machining has a valuable edge. This is in it supports of many materials. For 3D printing and others, there is a limitation on the type of materials you can choose for your parts.
The only rule about choosing a material for CNC machining is its compatibility with the manufacturing process. Therefore, you will need to consider factors such as:
Depending on whether you have a CNC machine or not, you can check for the materials supported before embarking on the process. At Rapid Direct, we are open to a variety of materials such as:
You can find the full list of our supported materials on our instant quoting platform. Upload your design files and start your project today!
When you look at the history of CNC machines, you will know that CNC machining did not start as many people think it did. Presently, wherever we say or see CNC machining, we expect a computerized process. However, CNC machining, to be precise, was just recently computerized.
This section will introduce you to CNC machining history, the first CNC machine, and its evolution over time.
The first CNC machine was credited to James Parsons in . Parsons was a computer pioneer who worked on an Air Force Research Project. The research was on how to produce helicopter blades and better aircraft skin.
Parsons was able to calculate helicopter airfoil coordinates with an IBM 602A multiplier. He then fed the data into a punched card, which he used on a swiss jig borer. This information led to the manufacture of many helicopter blades and aircraft skins. According to the accepted CNC history, this was considered the first CNC machine. Parson would later receive the Joseph Maria Jacquard Memorial Awards for his work.
Before the development of the first CNC machine, some machines could be instructed to make other tools. This was called Numerical Control (NC). You should notice the absence of Computerized (C)
Parsons would later develop the first CNC machine. With this development, there came an evolution. Below is a timeline of the evolution that occurred in the history of CNC machining.
As the Cold War became intense, there was a need to improve efficiency and productivity in making many machines and weapons. Therefore, in , Richard Kegg, together with MIT, made the first CNC milling machine known as Cincinnati Milacron Hydrotel. Richard Kegg would later file for a patent for the Motor Controlled Apparatus for Positioning Machine tool in .
CNC machining was becoming more recognized across the world. This was due to the Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Machining (CAM) development in . CAD and CAM inclusion in CNC machining led to massive developments in CNC machining. However, the two were not regarded as a standard part of the manufacturing process.
In , 3D Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Machining were included into CNC machining. In , CAD and CAM software-controlled machines became the industrial standard for CNC machines.
The evolution of CNC machines is unique. Starting from a simple machine controlled with a punch card to a software-powered machine is enigmatic. Because of the evolution, CNC machining became faster, more precise, and accurate than NC and the first CNC machine.
CNC machining has developed over time into something of wide recognition worldwide. Because of its advantages, many companies incorporated it into their manufacturing process. CNC machining is not only applicable to the industrial sector only. It is as important at the manufacturing level, which determines its use industrially. Below are the top industry's applications and manufacturing capabilities of CNC machining.
The Automotive industry is a major user of CNC machining. They depend on the manufacturing process in making their prototypes and in production.
While it might be surprising, the consumer electronics industry also uses CNC machining. Companies such as Apple use CNC machining in their production. For example, the Apple MacBook's chassis comes from aluminum subjected to CNC machining.
The two industrial sectors are major users of CNC machining. This is because of its high precision and accuracy. CNC machining is also ideal because it can produce on-demand replacement and upgraded versions of any parts.
CNC machining is a good process for making prototypes because it is autonomous. Once you have a CAD file, you can send it to a CNC machine, and fabrication will be done in a short time. These properties make it ideal for making prototypes.
CNC machining has high precision and accuracy, which makes it ideal for making high-quality components. Its wide material support also improves its use in parts fabrications.
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Consequently, companies that use it to make prototypes also use it to create usable final parts.
CNC machining is a gem in the direct manufacturing process and has been of immense help. However, it can also be used in the indirect manufacturing process to help in many processes, such as injection molding.
The history of CNC machining is unique. It has developed more from the first CNC machine that required punch card to a software-based machine that requires little guidance. CNC machining is the top manufacturing process incorporated into many industries.
CNC machining is an important part of major manufacturing processes. This is evident in its adoption by many industries and the companies that offer the service to people. When you choose us at Rapid Direct, you can get to enjoy many benefits including instant online quotation Design for Manufacturing analysis, strong engineering support, etc.
The first CNC machine was invented by Parsons, a computer pioneer in conjunction with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The research was on the efficient production of helicopter blades and stiffer skins for aircraft.
How is CNC used today?CNC Application is used at both the industrial and manufacturing levels in making parts. This is due to its advantages. At Rapid Direct, you can make your parts with our services easily.
What Does CNC Mean?CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control.
A modern mainstay of manufacturing and production, computer numerical control, or CNC, goes back to the s when the first Numerical Control, or NC, machines emerged. However, turning machines appeared before then. In fact, a machine used to replace handcrafted techniques and increase precision was invented in . It would be a while until the concept would take on the capabilities of a modern CNC production company.
The machining techniques that led to CNC manufacturing marked the start of industrialization. Today's definition of CNC machining is more specific. It involves entering 3D files into a computer, which runs a program that controls the motion of tools within a machining center. The process is fully automated, from the axis and speed of rotation of cutting tools to achieving the desired dimensions of the part.
A CNC machine is a system combining multiple tools (including drills, lathes, and milling tools), which are built into cells from which the machine can select and use them. It is designed to manufacture three-dimensional parts. The simplest machines move in one or two axes. On the other hand, more advanced systems feature X- and Y-axis motion and can move longitudinally in the Z-axis. Many are capable of rotational motion and even flipping parts automatically so material can be cut on all sides with no manual intervention.
Although the idea had been around for some time, the first Numerical Control concept wasn't developed until . John T. Parsons, an early computing pioneer, developed it as part of an Air Force research project carried out at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). An experimental milling machine was built at the institute's Servomechanisms Laboratory, with the goal of using motorized axes to produce helicopter blades and stiffer skins for aircraft.
Parsons Corporation in Traverse City, Michigan, got to work on the first system even before the MIT collaboration. Parsons was able to use an IBM 602A multiplier to calculate airfoil coordinates. The data points were fed into a swiss jig borer by feeding punched cards into the system. Preprogrammed information could be used to produce parts for helicopters; this was the precursor to CNC machine programming.
The idea was further developed and, in , Richard Kegg (in collaboration with MIT) introduced the Cincinnati Hydro-, a 28-inch vertical-spindle contour milling machine. Its commercial introduction came with a patent for a 'Motor Controlled Apparatus with Positioning Machine Tool.' The initial prototype, although it was operated using eight-column paper tape, a tape reader, and a vacuum-tube electronic control system, became a focus for future developments.
Early CNC machines in the s and s used punched tape, which was then commonly used in telecommunications and data storage. This technology was replaced by analog computing technologies. From the s into the s, digital technologies emerged, making the production process automated and more efficient.
Parsons was awarded for his early work. In , he received the first Joseph Marie Jacquard Memorial Award from the Numerical Control Society. The Society of Manufacturing Engineers awarded him an honorary plaque in , which named Parsons 'The Father of the Second Industrial Revolution.'
The highly automated motion control systems manufacturers now used are still based on the three primary components of their predecessors. They require a command function (whether a digital or analog system, a cam follower, or a flap handle to activate it); a drive/motion system such as a motor, cylinder, valve, or clutch; and a system that provides feedback, such as an encoder. In early NC machines, a control level would ride on a cam. In turn, the motor would rotate to operate the machine, but, if the feedback cable broke, the fluid flow couldn't be stopped.
Modern CNC machines are electronically controlled so this scenario is highly unlikely. The end results are now more predictable. Also, they can use just about any kind of material, including metal, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or foam.
In addition, novel forms of machining have been developed. Using the same concept as CNC machining, they include Electron Beam Machining, Electrical Discharge Machining, and Photochemical machining. These and others are often selected depending on the material used in the mass-production process. Also common are laser, oxy-fuel, water-jet, and plasma cutting machines.
The perspective of rapid prototyping has changed over the years, but the concept was applied from the very first punched tape, numerical control systems. Before then, all parts were machined by hand; even punched tape systems revolutionized the process. Nowadays, there are many prototyping options to choose from depending on the material used, economics, and the complexity of CNC parts.
The available tools and axes of rotation still make CNC machines appealing and extremely useful. With the advent of 3D printing, these advantages have begun to show their limitations. A 3D printer can produce complex parts, including their internal components. Depending on the application, material choices may be limited, so CNC systems remain the preferred choice, especially for prototype development.
The role of traditional machinists is quickly fading. In the 21st century, the demand for CNC specialists has been growing. Organizations such as the Institute for Technical Trades offer training to equip machinists with the skills needed to work for employers in this field. In many industries, the job outlook is robust; some predict technology jobs such as operating CNC equipment will account for 40% of future open job positions.1
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